Difference between used cars and certified pre-owned cars

Learn about certified used cars and how they are different from regular used cars.
Difference between used cars and certified pre-owned cars
4 min
22-February-2024

Purchasing a car is a considerable expense. A used car with the desired features presents a more economic option. However, not all used cars are the same, as there are certified pre-owned cars that offer more benefits than non-certified used cars. Let us discuss the difference between a used car and a certified pre-owned car.

What are used cars?

Used cars, also known as pre-owned cars, are vehicles that have been previously owned by someone else. These cars may have been traded-in, returned after a lease, or sold by the previous owner. The condition of used cars can differ from one vehicle to another, depending on how well the previous owner has maintained them. Used cars usually come with little to no warranty coverage, and there is no specific requirement for maintenance records.

What are certified pre-owned cars?

Certified pre-owned (CPO) cars are used cars that have undergone a thorough multi-point inspection by experts to determine their roadworthiness. CPO vehicles must meet specific age and mileage requirements and have service records that show a good maintenance history. CPO cars usually include a complete refurbishment to perfection to ensure they are in good working condition. These cars also come with a warranty to cover unforeseen maintenance costs.

Benefits of certified pre-owned cars

The benefits of buying certified pre-owned cars outweigh those of non-certified used cars. Below are some of the advantages of choosing a CPO car:

  • Warranty:
    CPO cars come with a warranty that covers unforeseen maintenance costs, which give the buyer peace of mind. The warranty may be valid for a specific period or up to a certain mileage, depending on the manufacturer.
  • Inspection:
    CPO cars undergo thorough multi-point inspections by experts to ensure that they are in good working condition. Any issue found during the inspection is resolved. Any necessary refurbishment is carried out to ensure that the car is in the best possible condition.
  • Documentation:
    While regular used cars may come at a lower price, you need not worry about checks and paperwork for certified cars. Certified cars come with documentation that makes the decision-making and purchase process easier.

Possible cons of certified pre-owned cars

While certified pre-owned cars offer more benefits than non-certified used cars, they also have some possible downsides. Certified cars may come at a higher price than regular used cars. This is due to the thorough quality checks they go through. Also, the price is manageable compared to the benefits of buying a used car that has warranty and certified parts.

If funds are a concern while buying pre-owned cars, used car loans from Bajaj Finance can be helpful. These loans cover up to 115% of your vehicle cost. And repayments are manageable with flexible repayment plans of up to 84 months.

Apply for a used car loan

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